Politics

Barbara Bush’s Final Request of Secret Service Agent Has Jaws Hitting the Floor

Barbara Bush was one of a kind. Don’t get me wrong, Melania’s a fantastic First Lady.

But there was something extra special about Barbara Bush that all Americans are going to miss.

She was genuine in a way no other First Lady has ever or could ever be.

And there’s one story in particular that demonstrates this trait.

Following Barbara Bush’s death last week, former Secret Service Agent Jonathan Wackrow wrote and op-ed for CNN detailing his last time protecting the former First Lady.

It’s a simple story, but says everything one needs to know about this special woman.

“Many years later, I encountered Mrs. Bush again when she made a visit to the New Jersey area. This time, I was driving her limo from New York City to an appointment in New Jersey.

“The motorcade was small and unassuming — traits that Mrs. Bush appreciated — consisting of a few Secret Service vehicles and one unmarked New York police vehicle. But upon exiting the Holland Tunnel into New Jersey, we were joined by an assortment of New Jersey State Police vehicles and motorcycles operating with full lights and sirens.

“Typically, this was not the way that the former first lady liked to travel, as it drew undue attention. However, in this instance — with her husband’s presidency behind her — she was thrilled. Taking a quick glance in the rear-view mirror, I could see an amazing smile illuminating her face as she turned to her staff in the back seat, exclaiming, ‘They remember me! We have not had this much excitement since the White House!’

“After her meeting, as the motorcade started to travel back to New York, Mrs. Bush leaned forward and asked the head of her protective detail if we could stop before getting back into New York City, as she wanted to thank all the police officers who, she said, ‘so warmly welcomed me to New Jersey.’

“Peering out the limo’s back windshield, I will never forget the image of Mrs. Bush shaking hands with the officers. It was a genuine moment of sincerity and unguarded kindness delivered out of the public eye, which, to me, defined this great woman.”

Barbara Bush loved America and its people. And we, in turn, will never forget her.